Life is going in spurts -- either I'm really busy around Cairo, or nothing is going on. Friday was busy with church in the morning, then meeting some relatives who are visiting Egypt, Frisbee at 3pm, then dinner with another MCC'ers and her visitors. Crazy.

Today, it's been a quiet afternoon of emailing and catching up on news. Tonight, I guess I'm going to do something to celebrate New Year's Eve, but I haven't quite figured out what!

But it's all insignificant compared to this:

UN 'shocked' by violence in Cairo

--Please read this article and follow links to the pics and other newspapers reporting on this story. It's horrible, absolutely horrible. I heard yesterday afternoon about troops going in, but I didn't know until today about the death toll. I'm not sure if I know anyone who was involved, but I'd be willing to bet that I know several family members of people who were.

I'm saddened by the reality of this, but I'm glad to see the heavy coverage that it is getting by Western media. This is a story that needs to be watched and followed... Please pray for all those involved.

I guess I should explain the pictures.

The one with me and 2 other guys was taken at a Retreat Center near Tanta when I was there on the 23rd and 24th with all the MCC'ers. On the left is George, our accountant/office manager (Egyptian). Next is James, the coordinator of our program in Egypt (he and his wife, Linda do that job together -- both are from Pennsylvania)

The big group picture is me with my Level 4 class that just finished. That's the reason for the odd hand gesture! *grin* This was a great group and I'm excited about having them again in Level 5!

Day after Christmas...

Went to a big mall today. It's a huge mega-mall in Cairo called "Stars Centre". I would include a link, but the website is so useless that I can't bring myself to do it. I couldn't even find a list of the major stores or any decent pictures. *sigh*

Just did window-shopping while some MCC'ers and their kids went to the movies. I didn't feel like watching anything, so I was happy to walk around.

Chatted tonight with my Mom, my niece Jordan, plus my friends Rob and Juan. A very nice after-Christmas present.

I should be online again on Tuesday if anyone is around to chat. I'll also try to write more about my Christmas celebrations...